ELSA PERETTI TIFFANY & CO. Vintage Sterling & Leather Snake Belt

SKU: 35108

$4,295

Born in Florence, Elsa Peretti's first introduction with her collection began at Tiffany & Co. in 1974. During that time her collection debuted to high acclaim. Her inspiration in jewelry came from nature with elements such as bones, beans, hearts, scorpions, snakes, teardrops and sea-shells. Peretti's designs are translated in a wide variety of materials, however her most popular designs are her works in silver.

A unique Vintage (ca1970) serpentine belt designed for Tiffany & Co. by Elsa Peretti! This fabulous belt has a bold look that resembles several of Peretti's other iconic snake designs. Peretti found snakes to be attractive creatures and was fascinated by their mechanics and she incorporated them into several of her pieces. At the center of the belt is a very large 3-dimensional snake head made of sterling silver. The head has a wide, flat appearance with flowing curves and realistic facial features. Its eyes are represented by alluring goldstone cabochons, which are deep purple in color and shimmer from within. The jaw is hinged, allowing the mouth to open, revealing a set of curved serpent fangs inside.

The snake's body is formed by the grey leather that comprises the rest of the belt and the unique design of the piece makes it fully adjustable. The end of the leather can be inserted through an opening under the snake's head, (which also serves as the clasp) and then threaded through its mouth and pulled to the desired level of tightness to secure it in place. The underside of the snake's neck is stamped "STERLING" and signed with the authentic "PERETTI" and "TIFFANY & CO" signatures. Both studs are also stamped with the same signatures underneath. This fashionable belt from a legendary designer has a very unique look and would make a fabulous addition to any wardrobe!

Measurements: When fully extended, the entire length of the belt from end to end (including the head) measures 46" long. The leather band measures approximately 2" at its widest point, and about 1" where it narrows in towards the end. The snake head itself measures 4" long, is 2 3/8" at its widest point and 1 1/8" at its thickest point.

Condition: The overall condition of the piece is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no serious damage to the leather or sterling silver snake head clasp and both studs are intact. The clasp is secure and in good working condition. It appears that there may have previously been a gold wash on the snake's head, which is now very subtle, but could be either fully polished away or re-plated if desired.